In the governor's race, Democratic challenger Tom Wolf’s double-digit lead has narrowed in recent weeks. Depending on turnout, particularly in the voter-rich southeastern portion of the state, the final tally could be much tighter than expected for much of the contest.

For other signals on which way the statewide gubernatorial race is headed, look to the Lehigh Valley and neighboring coal region.

The Patriot-News of Harrisburg crunched the numbers, and found that three counties – Northampton, Carbon and Schuylkill – have voted for the eventual winner in each of the last seven governor’s races.

Northampton County GOP chairman Craig DeFranco offered the newspaper this theory when asked why his county has been such a bellwether:

"His best guess is the peculiar makeup of Northampton County – growing suburbs around two cities that eventually fade into deeply rural territory - has something to do with it.

"I think that combination kind of mimics the state as a whole," he said.

Because of those demographics, the county tends to shift along the wider political winds of state and national politics, one cycle voting Republican, the next, Democratic."

The Morning Call will have reporters at each of the gubernatorial candidates' election night gatherings, along with updates throughout the day on that race and other contests. For those who want to follow along in detail after the polls close, results can be found on the Department of State web site.